Women rally in Avignon in support of French mass rape victim: Video
A group of French activists gathered in Avignon, France to sing and express their solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a 71-year-old woman who survived mass rape and is now testifying in a trial.
The case, which began on September 2, has drawn public attention due to the involvement of 50 men, aged between 26 and 74, who are also being tried for their alleged participation in the abuse.
Gisele, who had suffered from memory lapses for years, only uncovered the abuse through a police investigation. She has asked for the trial to be open to the public to raise awareness about the use of drugs in committing sexual violence.
Supporters gathered in the streets to voice their admiration for Gisele's courage. Nadège Peneau, a 46-year-old specialist educator from Orange, expressed her deep respect for Gisele, "I have total admiration for her. I think what she's doing is very courageous. Thanks to her... she carries the voice of so many children and women, and even men because that happens too... Yes, of course, I think she has immense courage to be able to (testify, editor's note) like that, in an open way."
Another activist, Maud Fontanel, who works with Family Planning in Avignon, emphasised the need to shift the shame surrounding sexual assault from victims to perpetrators. "It's important to reiterate that shame has to change sides because we know what happens when someone is sexually assaulted. The blame and responsibility are put back on the victim. We'll also make excuses for the aggressor, that's what we call rape culture, and it's very important to get this message across that shame should be on the aggressor's side and not the victim's," she was quoted by AFP.
The victim’s ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, 71, has admitted to all charges against him.
